Factory Adventure Tour

A factory is the heart of a manufacturing process. Manufacturing processes can be divided into job shops and flow shops. A job shop usually does not have a fixed production sequence but produces products in response to customer orders. On the other hand, a flow shop follows a set production plan or line with predetermined work orders that must be carried out consecutively according to the program. Flow shops are typically smaller. The work is either carried out by machinery or by workers. By contrast, a job shop has a more flexible production system, which can be oriented to customer needs.

The smaller shop tends to use a more human-oriented production method. Each job shop and flow shop has its own set of suppliers. When these manufacturers turn over the brand-new products they produce to their customers, they usually have an arrangement with a trading company that handles the logistics of shipping their product to the customer's country.

Factory Adventure Tour is a full-day factory tour in small- to medium-sized factories. Depending on the types and quantities of goods produced, factories can range from small, family-owned manufacturing enterprises to extensive production facilities. As with any manufacturing facility, factories that produce consumer goods are typically smaller than those that make specialty goods.

From start to finish, the factory tour will last about two hours (or more if you have questions). Before the time begins, you will be given a brief lecture on the manufacturing process. You may also have a chance to view some of the company's videos which can provide you with insight into the origins and history of the company.

The factory tour consists of a general walk-through and an explanation of part(s) of the production process. If an area is restricted, you will be advised ahead of time. However, there is usually no photography in or around machines and personnel because this is a safety precaution.